Wrangel Island: Across the Top of the World

This unique expedition crosses the Arctic Circle and includes the isolated and pristine Wrangel and Herald Islands and a significant section of the wild North Eastern Siberian coastline. It is a journey only made possible in recent years by the thawing in the politics of the region and the retreat of summer pack ice in the Chukchi Sea. The very small distance between Russia and the USA along this border area was known as the Ice Curtain, behind which then and now lies one of the last great undiscovered wilderness areas in the world.

Aboard the powerful icebreaker Kapitan Khlebnikov the voyage journeys through the narrow Bering Strait, which separates Russia from the United States of America, and then travels west along the Chukotka coastline before crossing the De Long Strait to Wrangel Island. There, spend four to five days under the guidance of local rangers on the nature reserve. The expert expedition team will take you on guided walks, Zodiac cruises and provide lectures to help you better understand and appreciate this unique High Arctic landscape - the home of the Polar Bear.

Kapitan Khlebnikov

Operated by: Heritage Expeditions

This authentic polar-class icebreaker holds the passenger ship record for the most crossings of the Northwest Passage and has famously circumnavigated Antarctica – twice. Built in 1981 by Finland’s Wärtsilä Company and one of four Kapitan Sorokin-class icebreakers, Kapitan Khlebnikov wraps comfortable surrounds in a formidable, ice-reinforced vessel capable of breaking ice as thick as two metres. Powered by 24,000 horsepower diesel-electric engines, she is designed for conquering the harshest conditions and allows the next-level experiential exploration Heritage Expeditions is renowned for.

Recently refurbished, Kapitan Khlebnikov comfortably accommodates up to 110 guests in well-appointed and spacious cabins and suites all featuring large windows that can be opened and en suite facilities. Common areas include large open decks, two dining rooms, a digitally- equipped theatre-style lecture room, heated indoor pool, sauna, gymnasium, fully-stocked library, bar, lounge and four-person elevator.

Return Charter flights Nome to Anadyr

Return charter flights from Nome, Alaska, across the Bering Sea and International Date Line, to the remote port of Anadyr, Russia are available at the start and end of the voyage. These charter flight is highly recommended.

Overland Traverse - Wrangel Island

Join local Rangers on a 3 day (2 night) overland journey by special tundra buggy on a traverse of this incredible Nature Reserve to see and experience the remotest parts of the Island and enjoy unique wildlife encounters. Limited to two groups of 5 persons per expedition. Additional price includes accommodation (basic huts), meals and touring.

Book your next cruise

Important note: Heritage Expeditions applies a local payment of USD $500 per person in addition to the published cruise fare. This payment is due when boarding the ship.

A Russian travel visa is required for this voyage. The passenger is responsible for obtaining this visa, however Expedition Cruise Specialists is able to assist in obtaining the necessary letter of invitation from the cruise line. Please enquire for details.

Please note that this itinerary travels to remote ports and itineraries are subject to change due to whether, the operation of the ship and government regulation. Travellers are reminded that the itinerary may be altered for any reason and that they should travel with a spirit of adventure.

ADDITIONAL PASSENGER DETAILS

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